Maintenance Fluid Calculation Peds

Pediatric Maintenance Fluid Formula:

\[ Fluid\ mL/kg/day = 100 \times first\ 10kg + 50 \times next\ 10kg + 20 \times over\ 20kg \]

Maintenance Fluid:

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1. What is Pediatric Maintenance Fluid Calculation?

The Pediatric Maintenance Fluid Calculation estimates daily fluid requirements for children based on body weight using the Holliday-Segar method. This formula accounts for the changing metabolic needs and body surface area in growing children.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pediatric maintenance fluid formula:

\[ Fluid\ mL/kg/day = 100 \times first\ 10kg + 50 \times next\ 10kg + 20 \times over\ 20kg \]

Where:

\( 100\ mL/kg/day \) — For the first 10 kg of body weight
\( 50\ mL/kg/day \) — For the next 10 kg (11-20 kg)
\( 20\ mL/kg/day \) — For each kg over 20 kg

Explanation: This stepwise calculation reflects the decreasing fluid requirements per kilogram as children grow larger, due to changes in metabolic rate and body composition.

3. Importance of Maintenance Fluid Calculation

Details: Accurate fluid calculation is essential for preventing dehydration in sick children, avoiding fluid overload, maintaining electrolyte balance, and supporting proper organ function during illness or hospitalization.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the child's weight in kilograms. The weight must be a positive number. The calculator will automatically apply the appropriate formula based on the weight category.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are fluid requirements different for children compared to adults?
A: Children have higher metabolic rates, larger body surface area to weight ratios, and different body composition, requiring more fluid per kilogram than adults.

Q2: When should this calculation be adjusted?
A: Adjustments may be needed for fever (increase 10-15% per °C above 38°C), dehydration, renal failure, heart failure, or specific clinical conditions.

Q3: What about hourly fluid rates?
A: Divide the daily total by 24 to get hourly maintenance rate. For example, 1500 mL/day ÷ 24 = 62.5 mL/hour.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This is for maintenance fluids only. Additional fluids may be needed for ongoing losses, and the formula may not apply to neonates or children with unusual body compositions.

Q5: How does this compare to the 4-2-1 rule?
A: The 4-2-1 rule (4 mL/kg/hour for first 10kg, 2 mL/kg/hour for next 10kg, 1 mL/kg/hour for remainder) gives the same result when multiplied by 24 hours.